Energy absorption device for vehicle steering column
US7628425B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 4, 2004 |
| Grant date | Dec 8, 2009 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 28, 2026 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
- CPC primaryF16F7/082
- WIPO fieldMechanical elements
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
An energy absorption device for a steering column for a vehicle includes a resilient device, preferably in the form of a coil spring, having turns that are wound in a clamping manner around a component such as a cylindrical rod connectable to the steering column. The coil spring and cylindrical rod are slidable relatively to each other to absorb energy in the event of a vehicle crash. An adjusting device is arranged to vary the clamping force of the turns of the coil spring on the rod by winding or unwinding the coils of the spring. The clamping force may be adjusted in accordance with data such as stature of the driver, vehicle speed and vehicle attitude.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.